DOJ investigation underway as Perry faces calls for censure or expulsion from Congress.
A judge revealed that the Republican Congressman Scott Perry of Pennsylvania restrained approximately 2,200 Ministry of Justice files (DOJ) during its investigation of the Jan. 6 Capitol riot.
The DOJ had requested the records as part of its investigation into the riot, but Perry reportedly refused to hand them over. However, Perry later provided some of the records to the DOJ, but the judge said he did not provide all of the records requested.
U.S. District Court Chief Judge Beryl Howell said Perry took an “astonishing view” of his immunity that would effectively put members of congress above the law and without political consequences for their actions. She asked him to reveal 2,055 documents he intended to keep hidden. This included the full set of 960 communications he had with members of the executive branch, which she considered lacking any constitutional protection.
Understanding the events of January 6
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Calendar: On January 6, 2021, 64 days after Election Day 2020, a crowd of supporters of President Donald J. Trump raided the Capitol. Here is closer how the attack went.
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Lives lost: A bipartisan Senate report said at least 140 police officers were injured and 5 gave their lives in the deadly attack. Read the stories of Capitol Police on January 6.
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Bipartisan inquiry: Over the past year, a bipartisan inquiry, led by members of the Republican and Democratic parties, has held 9 House committee hearings. Read and watch video and written summaries of the nine hearings.
Perry was a strong supporter of the former President Donald Trump and promoted the widespread voter fraud misrepresentations that led to the Capitol Riot. He also voted against certification of the results of the 2020 presidential election.
THE The DOJ Investigation into the Capitol Riot is ongoing, and it’s unclear whether Perry will face charges over his alleged withholding of records.
